Recent Blog Posts
What Changed with California’s Homestead Exemption in Recent Years and Why It Matters More Than Ever
For many years, California homeowners faced a difficult reality when financial trouble arose. Even modest home equity could be at risk in bankruptcy or judgment enforcement actions, particularly in high-cost areas like Los Angeles. That changed in a significant way beginning in 2021, when California dramatically increased its homestead exemption. Understanding how this change… Read More »
California’s Wildcard Exemption: How It Can Help Protect Cash, Cars, and Personal Property
When people think about bankruptcy, they often worry about losing everything they own. In reality, California’s exemption laws are designed to protect essential assets and give individuals a chance to rebuild financially. One of the most flexible and powerful tools available is the wildcard exemption under California’s 703 system. Understanding how this exemption works… Read More »
Garnishing Wages for Medical Bills, Credit Cards, or Court Judgments: Know Your Rights
Wage garnishment can be one of the most stressful consequences of falling behind on debt. For many Californians, it feels sudden and overwhelming to see a portion of their paycheck withheld, especially when they are already struggling with rising living costs. Whether the debt comes from unpaid medical bills, credit cards, or a court… Read More »
Can I Save My Home from Foreclosure Without Filing Bankruptcy? Alternatives and Their Risks
Facing foreclosure can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to avoid bankruptcy. Many California homeowners wonder whether it is possible to save their home through other options, such as loan modification, forbearance, or selling the property before foreclosure occurs. While these alternatives can sometimes provide short-term relief, they also carry risks that are… Read More »
Can I Keep My Car and Home If I File for Bankruptcy?
One of the most common fears people have when considering bankruptcy is the belief that they will automatically lose their car, their home, or both. For many Californians, these concerns are especially stressful because transportation and housing are essential to daily life. The reality is that bankruptcy does not automatically mean losing your property…. Read More »
How to Stop Creditor Harassment Immediately: Legal Tools for Peace of Mind
For many people in Los Angeles, creditor harassment becomes one of the most overwhelming parts of financial hardship. Repeated phone calls, threatening letters, and warnings about wage garnishment or bank levies can create constant stress and uncertainty. Even when the debt itself feels manageable, the pressure from debt collectors can disrupt daily life and… Read More »
Protecting Retirement Accounts in Bankruptcy and Divorce: What California Couples Need to Know
When financial strain and marital breakdown collide, retirement savings are often one of the greatest concerns. For many California couples, pensions, 401(k)s, and IRAs represent years of hard work and the foundation of future security. Facing bankruptcy and divorce at the same time can put those assets at risk if decisions are made without… Read More »
Education Department Delays Student Loan Wage Garnishment: What Los Angeles Borrowers Need to Know
For millions of Americans struggling with student loan debt, wage garnishment can feel like the breaking point. When paychecks are reduced before the money ever reaches a bank account, it becomes more challenging to cover rent, utilities, groceries, and other essential expenses. That is why a recent announcement from the U.S. Department of Education… Read More »
Can a Second Mortgage Lender Garnish Your Wages? What Happens If You Default in California
Falling behind on a second mortgage can lead to financial stress that feels overwhelming, especially when you’re not sure how far a lender can go to collect what you owe. Many California homeowners assume the biggest risk is foreclosure, but junior lienholders often have broader collection options when a property lacks equity. If a… Read More »
Bankruptcy and Small Business Owners: Protecting Yourself and Your Livelihood
Running a small business in California often means carrying the weight of every financial decision on your shoulders. When cash flow tightens, vendor debts pile up, or the future of the company becomes uncertain, the pressure can feel overwhelming. Many owners begin asking one of the most difficult questions: If my business fails, will… Read More »